Ethical Dilemmas and Possible Solutions, Essay Example

Applied anthropology refers to the practice of using anthropology to solve contemporary problems. The four types of applied anthropology discussed in this chapter are developmental anthropology, cultural resource management (crm), forensic anthropology, and the study of linguistic diversity in classrooms. Ethical dilemmas are common obstacles for those working in an applied anthropology field.

Anthropologists working in business run into ethical dilemmas concerning marketing and those working in CRM face ethical dilemmas about how and what remains should be preserved in the face of new development and public works projects. Anthropologists must answer ethical questions such as to who does the researcher’s loyalty really belong to, and what are the consequences of sticking with the truth. And what if a program goes wrong? What does the anthropologist involved in the failed project do then?

Professional organizations, such as the AAA, have responded to ethical questions by developing a specific code of ethics for applied anthropologists and creating ethics committees. Ethics lessons are an important part of the curriculum in university anthropology programs. A good foundation and reference for making ethical decisions is only part of the solution, however. While a solid support system is required for success in any endeavor, the solution to solving ethical dilemmas in applied anthropology need to be applicable solutions as well. Anthropologists need to be involved at the policy making level. It is the only way to ensure the policy made is truly in consideration of anthropological concerns.